Do I need to learn Russian to ride the Moscow metro?

No. Recognize about 10 Cyrillic letters and you can read most station names. Maps apps work fine.

Is the Moscow metro safe at night?

Yes. Even at midnight on weekdays the platforms feel safe and well-lit. It is one of the safest urban transit systems in the world.

How do I get the Troika card?

Buy from any metro station ticket counter or the orange touchscreen machines in the station hall. Cash or Russian card. Foreign cards do not always work at machines but counters take cash.

Are there guided Moscow metro tours?

Yes. The "Metro Tour" by Moscow Free Tours covers six of the most beautiful stations in 90 minutes with English commentary. Free, tip-based.

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Photo: miketnorton, CC BY 2.0. Source: Wikimedia Commons

Moscow Metro Guide for Tourists: Stations, Cards, Cyrillic

May 15, 2026

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